Brooking may not return

Adam Schefter of NFL.com reports that it is doubtful that long-time Falcon linebacker Keith Brooking will be returning to the Falcons next season. Brooking is among several Falcon players that are free agents this off-season, and per Schefter the Falcons may opt to pass on re-signing him due to increased age and declining ability.

Brooking, 33, was the Falcon player that blew an assignment that led to the Cardinals converting on a key third down in the final minutes of their playoff loss on Sunday. Brooking led the Falcons in tackles this year with 102. He was the team’s first round pick in 1998 and is their longest-tenured player.